Macquarie

A lively and engaging portrait of a towering and complex figure of Australian colonial history.

Macquarie by Grantlee Kieza is an in-depth exploration of Lachlan Macquarie, a pivotal figure credited with transforming the penal colony of New Holland into an agricultural powerhouse and a prosperous society. As an egalitarian, Macquarie saw opportunity in former convicts, enabling many to become successful administrators, landowners and business people, shaping Australia's national character.

However, his ambitions often clashed with the continent's original landowners, as he sought to rename the colony 'Australia'. His leadership was also marked by a brutal military operation aimed at the Indigenous people, ultimately leading to the deaths of many Aboriginal men, women, and children. This raises the question: was Macquarie a nation-builder or a tyrant enforcing colonial oppression?

This biography showcases Macquarie's life journey, from a poor Scottish farm boy to a British army officer who experienced wars on five continents and rose to prominence. While laying the foundations of a new nation, Macquarie's role in the dispossession of Indigenous people cannot be overlooked. Lover, fighter, egalitarian, autocrat - Lachlan Macquarie is a complex and engaging character who first envisaged the nation we call Australia.

PRAISE FOR GRANTLEE KIEZA OAM

'Engagingly written ... one of the most nuanced portraits to date' -- The Australian

'Vivid, detailed and well written' -- Daily Telegraph

'A staggering accomplishment that can't be missed by history buffs and story lovers alike' -- Betterreading.com.au

'A free-flowing biography of a great Australian figure' --- John Howard

'Clear and accessible ... well-crafted and extensively documented' -- Weekend Australian

'Kieza has added hugely to the depth of knowledge about our greatest military general in a book that is timely' Tim Fischer, Courier-Mail

'The author writes with the immediacy of a fine documentary ... an easy, informative read, bringing historic personalities to life' -- Ballarat Courier